Federal Minister of Economics, Katherina Reiche (CDU), has announced plans to increase the speed at which data centers are connected to the national power grid. Speaking to the newspaper Stern, Reiche stated that grid operators will soon be allowed to prioritize the connection of data centers in particularly suitable locations.
She emphasized that while German businesses have successfully built “the most efficient data centers in the world using European technology,” these facilities were unfortunately hindered by lengthy waits for grid access. Improving this pace is, she stressed, “critically important” for building sovereign computing power. Consequently, the Network Agency will be modifying the current connection regulations.
According to the Minister, this change is a necessary prerequisite for Germany to take a leading role in utilizing industrial “Artificial Intelligence.” Reiche noted that Germany successfully merges industrial strength with scientific excellence, arguing that a targeted use of this strength could restore the country’s top position in sectors such as mechanical engineering, chemistry, medical technology, robotics, and mobility.
In related matters, Reiche is currently exploring whether data centers could qualify for support under the industrial electricity price mechanism, a process which requires approval from Brussels.
The Minister also highlighted the growing energy needs of various sectors. She explained that data centers, heat pumps, and electric vehicles are expected to require “significantly more electricity” by 2035. The Federal Network Agentury estimates this potential power deficit to be up to 36 GW of secured capacity.
To address this, Reiche confirmed that her ministry will tender new gas power plants with adjustable output this year-a plan previously scheduled for the end of the last year. Starting next year, additional “technology-open” dispatchable capacities will become available. Furthermore, the rollout of renewable energies will continue in areas where the grid infrastructure can accommodate the increased load.
